This collection consists of correspondence, business papers, and personal papers of Ephraim W. Morse. It covers many of his
business and civic activities in San Diego, California in the mid- to late-nineteenth century.

Background

Ephraim W. Morse was born in Amesbury, Massachusetts on October 16, 1823. He arrived in San Diego, California in 1850, after
a short stint gold panning in San Francisco. His first business venture was the operation of a general store, supplied through
his San Francisco business associates Daniel Breed and A.J. Chase. He quickly expanded his businesses to include sheep ranching,
beekeeping, copper mining, and law. In the late 1860s Morse partnered with Alonzo Horton in the field of real estate speculation,
and their persistent promotion of the area fueled the growth of the City of San Diego and its move to New Town.

Extent

5.0 Linear feet
(10 boxes)

Restrictions

The San Diego History Center (SDHC) holds the copyright to any unpublished materials. SDHC Library regulations do apply.

Availability

This collection is open for research. Detailed inventory of correspondence (Series I) is available at the San Diego History
Center Library.